Uncertain Places, Uncertain Dreams, Uncertain Realities
Migrating from one place to another is not a new phenomenon. People have moved from one place to another for various reasons, be it in search of a better life, more money, or a better climate to live in etc. In our history lessons we have learnt about great travellers like Vasco Da Gama, Christopher Columbus, Nicolo Conti, who travelled the world and made a name for themselves. But unfortunately we do not see many women travellers in history. But the times have changed, and women are travelling more. They are searching for jobs, or education, and money.
Uncertainty is all what Urban Migration is all about.
Reasons behind catching a train to the city are Dreams, Desires, Ambitions and Career.
It may be expectations of a greater livelihood, educational opportunities, moving away from conflicts at home, or dreams for a glamorous life. Migration is one process which helps in changing the fabrics of the society. Along with this the demography of the place also changes and it brings business and culture to the city. But the question is how it impacts women from villages and small towns. The city will become the reason behind their enlightenment, and knowledge. This knowledge would help them to be a part of this new city.
If one ever looks at any journey of a woman, we have seen how women can be both emotional and strong at the same time. Looking at a woman’s journey in her early 20s about making a life in the city has always been an inspirational story. After battling with their dreams and parents in many cases, when these women come out in the society, it seems as if they are presented as debutantes. Underneath are the stories of two such debutantes who migrated to the city for education, but life had different plans for them.
Dolly Singh – From Nainital to French Riviera
Dolly Singh was born and brought up in Nainital, Uttarakhand. Raised in a middle-class household, she wasn’t initially immersed in the allure of the entertainment industry. She studied fashion design at the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) in Delhi. During her studies, she developed an interest in content creation and expressing her creativity, but she never aimed at achieving social media recognition. After finishing her studies, Dolly Singh had difficulty securing a stable position. Similar to numerous other young adults, she confronted the tough realities of the job market, and even worked as an emcee, sometimes at malls and sometimes at parties.. In spite of her credentials, she struggled to obtain a job in the fashion sector or any other area she desired to pursue. Dolly’s major achievement occurred when she developed the persona of “Bengali Mom,” a humorous character inspired by her personal experiences. This character quickly struck a chord with many, and her relatable, eccentric depiction of the typical “Indian mother” became popular and adored by audiences. Her wit and originality drew in additional followers on her Instagram and YouTube accounts. Recently she walked the Red Carpet at the French Riviera wearing Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla and Tarun Tahiliani. Dolly’s achievements were driven by her talent for crafting relatable, humorous, and distinctive content that connected with audiences, demonstrating that authenticity can serve as a strong instrument for bonding.
Nancy Tyagi – From creating outfits to creating a name for herself
Nancy Tyagi is a name that resonates with many who have experienced the struggles of migration, from Uttar Pradesh and helping her parents financially. Despite facing financial hardship, Nancy remained resilient. She kept pushing through, learning new skills in stitching and making beautiful dresses.
Nancy’s perseverance allowed her to carve out a successful life, after she was invited to Cannes Film Festival, where she had worn a dress made by herself. Recently she also designed an outfit for Ananya Pandey for her series on Amazon Prime, “Call me Bae.”Her story is a testament to the strength and determination of migrants striving for a better future.
Even after such success stories, there is still a non ending fight for migrant women. Struggles ranging from legal and economic struggles to cultural barriers and gender-based discrimination. Yet, despite these hardships, their resilience, determination, and unwavering hope allow them to overcome immense obstacles. Whether in the workforce, education, or their communities, migrant women continually demonstrate remarkable strength and adaptability. Their stories are a testament to the power of perseverance and the human spirit, proving that even in the face of adversity, success is not only possible but often a result of their relentless pursuit of a better life for themselves and their families. As we recognize and amplify their experiences, we must continue to advocate for the resources, support, and policies that enable migrant women to thrive, ensuring that their successes are not just exceptions, but a reflection of their collective potential.
